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Excavator Operator Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

AAON, Inc.

Machine Operator

Redmond, OR · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

The Machine Operator I is an entry-level position responsible for supporting daily production by operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment under close supervision. This role assists in loading ...

K-1 Speed Inc

Track Operator

Bend, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

As a Track Operator, you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities: * Provide ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Bend, OR

Excavator Operator information

See Bend, OR salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Bend, OR is $27.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $30.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an excavator operator do?

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery called excavators to move earth, dig trenches, lift materials, and perform site preparation on construction projects. They control the excavator’s boom, bucket, and other attachments with precision to complete tasks safely and efficiently. Excavator Operators also perform routine equipment maintenance, follow safety protocols, and collaborate with site supervisors and other workers. Their work is crucial in building foundations, roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, maintenance software, and various models of excavators is typically required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation on construction sites, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by excavator operators on construction sites?

Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating with other heavy equipment to maintain safety and efficiency. Managing unexpected underground obstacles and ensuring accurate digging according to site plans also requires strong attention to detail. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is essential to minimize delays and prevent accidents, making teamwork a critical aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Excavator Operator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectExcavator OperatorBackhoe Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingSimilar certifications, often OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationConstruction sites, utility work, landscaping
Job DutiesDigging, lifting, demolition with large excavatorsDigging trenches, loading, small-scale excavation
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, infrastructureConstruction, landscaping, utility companies

While both Excavator Operators and Backhoe Operators work in construction and use similar safety certifications, Excavator Operators typically handle larger machinery for heavy-duty tasks, whereas Backhoe Operators focus on smaller-scale digging and loading. The choice depends on project size and equipment used.

How much do they pay an excavator operator?

Excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Bend, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,400 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Heavy Civil Equipment Operator

Redmond, OR • On-site

Deschutes Construction
Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Deschutes Constructionexternal

$35 - $40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Heavy Civil Equipment Operator

Job Overview

  • Company: Deschutes Construction.

  • Salary/Pay Rate: $35–$40 per hour or local prevailing wage when applicable

  • Location: Redmond, OR.

  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time.

  • Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8–10 hour shifts, with overtime and occasional weekend work as needed

  • Project Scope: Commercial, Industrial, and Government Civil Sitework.

The Opportunity

Deschutes Construction (DCC) is hiring a Heavy Civil Equipment Operator to support commercial, industrial, and civil sitework projects throughout Central Oregon. This role works under the direction of the Foreman and is ideal for someone who values safety, teamwork, and pride in quality work.

How You Will Make an Impact

  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, skid steers, mini excavators, and rollers

  • Perform heavy civil and sitework tasks including excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and site preparation

  • Work safely around trenches, underground utilities, and active construction zones

  • Follow project plans, grade stakes, and GPS systems to complete work accurately

  • Conduct routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance

  • Support the Foreman and crew in meeting daily production goals safely and efficiently

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused jobsite

Required Qualifications & Experience

  • At least 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment in construction

  • Experience working on civil, sitework, or excavation projects preferred

  • Basic ability to read plans and drawings

  • Familiarity with trench safety and safe equipment operation

  • Experience working with or around GPS machine control systems preferred

  • Valid driver’s license required

  • Ability to commute to or relocate to Redmond, OR

  • Strong work ethic, teamwork, and commitment to safety

Compensation & Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with 100% employer match up to 4%

  • Paid time off

  • Overtime opportunities

  • Career growth with a family-owned company that values its people

Why Join DCC

At DCC, you’re more than just an employee — you’re part of a team that takes pride in doing the work right and building projects that matter.

About Us

Deschutes Construction is a family-owned leader in civil and industrial sitework, known for treating our team with genuine respect and kindness. We foster a supportive environment where hard work is rewarded and professional growth is encouraged through ongoing training.

Learn more at www.dccoregon.com.

Deschutes Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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